Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi receives British Parliamentary delegation.

Dr. Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Speaker of the Federal National Council, FNC, received a British Parliamentary delegation led by Alistair Burt, Chairman of the UAE All Party Parliamentary Group in the British Parliament, at the headquarters of the FNC today.

She briefed the delegation about the progress of the parliamentary process and the vision of the UAE leadership, which enables the FNC to exercise its constitutional duties to implement the political programme announced by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the UAE’s desire to achieve regional and global security, peace and stability.

Dr. Al Qubaisi said this visit represents a positive addition and true reflection of the development of bilateral relations between both countries while highlighting the importance of mutual co-operation in political, parliamentary, economic, cultural and humanitarian areas, translated into many joint initiatives including youth empowerment, through the open parliamentary practices between both countries.

She also addressed bilateral issues of concern for both countries, while speaking about the possibility of exempting UAE nationals from entry visas to the United Kingdom, similar to the entry visa exemption to the European Union, or Schengen. She stressed that UAE nationals normally visit the UK for tourism, education, investment and medical treatment in British hospitals.

The two sides also discussed regional and international issues and current developments, especially the situation in Syria, Yemen and Libya, and the threat of extremism and terrorism.

Dr. Al Qubaisi condemned last month’s terrorist attack in front of the British House of Commons while highlighting the major role of parliamentarians in eradicating terrorism, noting that the UAE highlights the importance of international co-operation to combat terrorist organisations through a clear strategy.

Alistair Burt said that the UAE is a beacon for others in terms of progress, development and outstanding development achievements, with accomplishments in various fields such as progressive government work.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, Dr. Al Qubaisi said that the FNC, in co-operation with the Anglo-Emirati Parliamentary Friendship Committee, is launching a number of joint initiatives between the UAE and Britain that will be announced soon, including creating a greater role for youth through open parliamentary practices in both countries, as well as promoting international security and peace, and combining efforts to combat terrorism.